Achraf Hakimi has opened up about his pivotal decision to represent Morocco on the international stage, revealing that a call-up to the Spanish national team simply “didn’t feel right.”
The Paris Saint-Germain defender, born in Madrid to Moroccan parents, was a highly sought-after prospect. He confirmed that Spain did make an approach for him, but his heart was always set on playing for the Atlas Lions.
“Spain didn’t feel good,” Hakimi stated plainly. “I was clear with them. I told them my choice was Morocco. It was a decision I made with my family, and it came from the heart. I never had any doubts.”
His commitment to Morocco has been richly rewarded. Hakimi was a key figure in the nation’s historic run to the 2022 World Cup semi-finals in Qatar, where they became the first African team to ever reach that stage. He famously scored the winning penalty in a dramatic shootout victory against Spain in the round of 16.
“When you achieve things with the national team, the whole country is behind you,” Hakimi explained. “The love I receive from the Moroccan people is incredible. It’s a different feeling, and I’m very proud to represent them.”
The 25-year-old’s journey began in the youth ranks of Real Madrid, but he insists his international allegiance was never truly in question. He made his senior debut for Morocco in 2016 and has since earned over 70 caps, solidifying his status as a national icon.
